Causes of vascular disease (a condition that affects the arteries, veins, or lymphatic vessels) include:
- Atherosclerosis -- Atherosclerosis (a build-up of plaque, which is a deposit of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium, and fibrin in the inner lining of an artery) is the most common cause of vascular disease. Atherosclerosis is a slow, progressive, vascular disease that may start as early as childhood. However, the disease has the potential to progress rapidly. It is generally characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits along the innermost layer of the arteries. If the disease process progresses, plaque formation may take place. This thickening narrows the arteries and can decrease blood flow or completely block the flow of blood to organs and other body tissues and structures.
- Embolus/thrombus -- A blood vessel may be blocked by a thrombus (a blood clot) or an embolus (typically a thrombus that moves through the bloodstream).
- Inflammation -- In general, inflammation of blood vessels is referred to as vasculitis, which includes a range of disorders. Inflammation may lead to narrowing and/or blockage of blood vessels.
- Trauma/injury -- Trauma or injury involving the blood vessels may lead to inflammation or infection, which can damage the blood vessels and lead to narrowing and/or blockage.
Causes of vascular disease (a condition that affects the arteries,
veins, or lymphatic vessels) include: Atherosclerosis --
Atherosclerosis (a build-up of plaque, which is a deposit of fatty
substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products,...
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Brigham and Women's Hospital answered:Causes of vascular disease (a condition that affects the arteries, veins, or lymphatic vessels) include:
